Ex-Rangers and Islanders forward Chris Simon died by suicide, his family said in a statement to ESPN.
He was 52.
The family of the 15-year NHL veteran believes he dealt with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease that worsens over time.
“The family strongly believes and witnessed firsthand, that Chris struggled immensely from CTE which unfortunately resulted in his death,” a statement from by Simon’s former agent, Paul Theofanous, said on Wednesday morning.
“We are grieving with the loss of our son, brother, father, partner, teammate and friend. The entire Wawa community is sharing in our grief. We will not be releasing any further details at this time and ask for privacy during this very difficult time. We appreciate everyone who shares in our tragic loss.”
Simon was known for his physical play, getting into 101 fights and adding 1,824 penalty minutes during his career.
He was suspended eight different times by the NHL, totaling 65 games.
The Islanders, with whom Simon played for two seasons with, posted a statement on X on Tuesday following his death.
“The New York Islanders offer their condolences to the family and friends of former Islanders forward, Chris Simon,” the team wrote, along with a picture of Simon in an Islanders uniform. “Chris played two seasons with the Islanders (2006-07 and 2007-08). He epitomized what it means to be an Islander, someone who wore his heart on his sleeve both on the ice and in the community.”
Simon was drafted 25th overall in the 1990 NHL Draft and reached the Stanley Cup Final three times, winning it all in 1996 with the Avalanche.
He scored a goal with two assists in the ’96 playoffs en route to winning the title.
“Folks…sad day today…Chris Simon was most definitely an intimidating guy on the ice…hell of a player as well…” former teammate Mike Commodore wrote on X. “We spent a lot of time together during Flames 04 run since we were both living in the hotel…he couldn’t have been nicer to me. RIP Chris. You will be missed.”
He finished his career with 144 goals and 161 assists before playing his last NHL game in 2008.
The league also released a statement following his death.
“The National Hockey League mourns the passing of Chris Simon, who played in more than 800 NHL games over 15 seasons,” the NHL said in a statement. “A fierce competitor and teammate, Simon won the Stanley Cup with Colorado in 1996, and reached the 1998 Stanley Cup Final with Washington as well as the 2004 Stanley Cup Final with Calgary.
“Our sincere condolences go out to his family, friends and former teammates.”
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you can dial the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention hotline at 988 or go to SuicidePreventionLifeline.org.